Scotland's Orkney Islands

Reiseverlauf 2026

1. Tag 1

   Inverness to Kirkwall

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   Welcome to Scotland, and Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands. This vibrant city is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and proximity to Loch Ness. Today, instead of searching for Nessie, you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travelers at Inverness Railway Station to begin your journey to the Orkney Isles. Catch a train to Thurso, where we transfer to the nearby port of Scrabster to board the ferry for Orkney. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your evening meal while taking in the stunning views of the Old Man of Hoy, the tallest sea stack in the UK. Upon arrival in Stromness, we take a private transfer to Kirkwall, the island’s principal town. After the long journey, settle into your accommodation. If you'd like to stretch your legs and get your bearings, take a stroll into the town centre for a walk or enjoy a drink.
   Meet your leader and fellow travelers at 1:30 pm in the main ticket hall of Inverness Railway Station. The station is small, so keep an eye out for your leader in the fixed seating area, holding a sign with the Intrepid logo. Be sure to arrive on time for this important meeting, as the group will depart from Inverness immediately afterward. If you’re unable to find a flight that arrives on time, we recommend booking an extra night in Inverness before the trip begins. The railway station offers a range of facilities, including toilets, shops, cafes, and luggage storage. Additionally, several supermarkets are within walking distance, where you can pick up snacks, food, or drinks. The station is centrally located, making it convenient if you need a chemist or any last-minute clothing items. It’s worth mentioning that there is no refreshments trolley or bar on this train journey, although there are lots of options at the station or in Inverness prior to setting off. Please be aware that today’s journey is quite long, taking approximately 7.5 hours and involving a train, ferry, and pre-booked taxis. We expect to arrive in Kirkwall at around 9 pm. On board the ferry, you'll find a variety of options for eating and drinking, including vending machines offering tea, coffee, soft drinks, and snacks. The guesthouse is about a 17-minute walk from the centre, located on a slight hill. If you prefer a taxi, please speak with your leader, who can arrange one for you.
2. Tag 2

   Kirkwall

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   This morning, we explore the vibrant town of Kirkwall, the heart of Orkney. Our guide will take us on a walking tour, delving into the town’s Viking heritage. Highlights include St Magnus Cathedral (founded in 1137), the ‘Peedie Sea,’ and the maze of narrow streets where the traditional ‘Ba’ game is played each year. The afternoon is free, offering a perfect opportunity to retrace your steps and visit any craft shops, museums, or historic sites you may have passed earlier. For those interested, our guide will lead a short hike up Wideford Hill, offering panoramic views of Kirkwall and the surrounding islands. Alternatively, you can visit a whisky distillery, explore the craft and jewellery shops, or simply relax in a local pub. After dinner, if the skies are clear, our guide will lead a short walk outside Kirkwall to stargaze and, if lucky, catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights!
   The walking tour of Kirkwall covers approx. 1.3km, with minimal elevation gain and takes approx. 2 hours We can recommend the following suggestions for your free afternoon today. The Orkney distillery - https://www.orkneydistilling.com/ - Book early and directly, as this is a popular activity. Easily accessible by private taxi. The Orkney Museum - http://www.orkneymuseums.co.uk/our-museums/the-orkney-museum/ Maeshowe Chambered Cairn - https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/maeshowe-chambered-cairn/ - Book early and directly, as this is a popular activity. Easily accessible by private taxi The Standing Stones of Stenness - https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/stones-of-stenness-circle-and-henge - Easily accessible by private taxi The Earls Palace - https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/bishop-s-and-earl-s-palaces-kirkwall/ Saint Magnus Cathedral - http://www.orkneymuseums.co.uk/our-museums/st-magnus-cathedral/
3. Tag 3

   Kirkwall

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   Today, we’ll embark on a private coach tour to explore some of Orkney’s most captivating historic sites. Our journey begins by heading south to the Italian Chapel, a remarkable structure crafted from two Nissen huts by Italian prisoners of war. Next, we’ll cross the striking Churchill Barriers, built during the war to protect Scapa Flow from U-boat attacks; several shipwrecks still rise above the water’s surface. We then continue west to one of Orkney’s most renowned landmarks: the prehistoric village of Skara Brae. By now, we’ll have worked up an appetite, so we’ll visit an old schoolhouse for a picnic lunch, showcasing the best of local Orkney produce. Our journey back to Kirkwall takes us to the iconic Ring of Brodgar Standing Stones, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back over 5,000 years. Once in Kirkwall, you’ll have the opportunity to join the rest of your group for dinner and reflect on the fascinating sights and experiences of the day.
   Today's private coach tour departs the guesthouse at 9.00 am and returns at approximately 5pm. Although we’ll be travelling by coach, there will be some walking at the sites we visit today. Please make sure to pack everything you'll need for the day, including a waterproof jacket, a bottle of water, your phone, and a camera. A picnic lunch of local Orkney produce is provided and there are restroom facilities at various points throughout the day.
4. Tag 4

   Kirkwall

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   After breakfast, we’ll travel to Houton and catch a ferry to the island of Hoy, the second largest island in Orkney. Hoy was the main naval base for the British fleet during both World Wars, with Scapa Flow at Lyness being a key location. Today, we’ll visit the renowned Scapa Flow Museum, home to an impressive collection of artifacts from this historic site. Take time to explore the exhibits and, if you wish, enjoy an optional coastal walk with stunning views back towards the Orkney mainland. We’ll return by ferry to Kirkwall in the early afternoon, leaving you with the rest of the day free to relax or explore at your leisure. Later, immerse yourself in Orkney’s rich cultural heritage by enjoying the atmosphere, perhaps by joining your leader for a whisky tasting, featuring exceptional malts from Orkney and beyond.
5. Tag 5

   Kirkwall to Inverness

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   After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey back to Inverness with your group, arriving in the late afternoon. With no activities planned in Inverness, the trip concludes upon arrival at the railway station. However, your adventure doesn’t have to end here! If you'd like to extend your time in the north of Scotland, we can arrange additional accommodation (subject to availability). For those wishing to continue exploring, consider joining one of our other adventures on the mainland or the Shetland Islands. Just speak to your booking agent in advance to make arrangements.
   The journey from the Orkney islands to Inverness is approximately 7.5 hours and includes a combination of train, ferry, and pre-booked taxis. On board the ferry, you'll find a variety of options for eating and drinking, including vending machines offering tea, coffee, soft drinks, and snacks. There are also some light refreshment options and toilet facilities on the train. Please note that arrival in Inverness is scheduled for around 5 pm. We recommend considering a later evening travel connection or perhaps staying an extra night in Inverness to allow for any potential delays your group may encounter today.